Agriculture Resources

Clarington's local farms work hard to support Ontario’s food supply. With nearly 400 working farms in Clarington, agriculture is the top industry and main economic driver in our community. To support the industry during these unprecedented times, the Municipality has created this central resource page with useful links and information for our local farms and residents.

This page is a one-stop resource for residents looking to source local farm-fresh food. It’s also a resource for the agriculture industry with information on employment opportunities, funding and financing, government websites, and industry news.

To learn more about the agricultural industry, the work involved and the challenges farmers face daily, take a look at 'the real dirt behind farming in Clarington' -- a video developed by the Clarington Board of Trade.

The Agricultural Advisory Committee of Clarington advises Council on matters related to local agriculture. They are a great resource and provide leadership in the industry.

Clarington and Durham Region have partnered with Farm 911: The Emily Project to address and install signage for agricultural, vacant and rural properties in the rural area.

Accessing locally grown food

Bowmanville REKO Network
A REKO network creates a direct relationship between customers and small-scale producers. Join the Facebook group to pre-order and purchase items in advance. Items are then picked up on Thursdays, for one hour, at the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex parking lot.

Clarington Board of Trade - Food at your Fingertips
A list of restaurants and farms in Clarington that are offering takeout, delivery, or curbside pickup.

Clarington Farmers' Market
A seasonal market held at Diane Hamre Recreation Complex every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Browse a selection of local produce, fresh baked goods, pantry items and more.

Durham Farm Fresh
The Durham Farm Fresh Marketing Association is a not-for-profit membership organization representing farms, farmers’ markets, retailers, chefs and restaurants in the Durham Region.

Green Circle Food Hub
Farmers formed the Green Circle Food Hub at the start of COVID-19 out of the need for collaboration and cooperation between farmers and customers. Kendal Hills Farm in Orono serves as a collection point for food. Shop the market online and arrange for no-contact delivery.

Employment

Government of Canada - Step up to the Plate
This website has links to more than 25 employment resource sites across Canada, including those specializing in agriculture and agri-food jobs.

Agriculture and Food Jobs in Ontario
Created by the Government of Ontario, this website contains links to jobs in agriculture and the food industry, industry organizations and training resources.

Ontario Federation of Agriculture - Feeding Your Future
This is a tool to assist job seekers looking for work in the agriculture sector, including virtual job fair information, a job matching concierge and webinars.

AgCareers
Search for jobs and internships, post a resume, access employment resources and download the Ag and Food Career Guide.

Government of Canada Youth Employment and Skills Program
The Youth Employment and Skills Program provides a wage subsidy to employers who hire youth for agricultural jobs. The program offers wage and relocation support.

Industry News

AgriSuccess Magazine
AgriSuccess Magazine helps Canadian producers advance their farm management practices. Learn from producers and industry experts and get practical advice, real-life examples and innovative ideas.

Canadian Federation of Agriculture
Weekly updates on COVID-19 as it relates to Canadian agriculture.

Government of Ontario News - Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
News releases from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs relating to COVID-19.

Ontario Spirit - A Celebration of Local Food Collaboration
Report by the provincial government about the successes in the agri-food industry during COVID-19.

Farm 911: The Emily Project

When farm accidents happen in remote locations, time is of the essence. But without a clear address marker, it can be difficult for first responders to find the people who need help. After an accident, seconds count. If you are on a rural property without a 911 address, it may take first responders longer to find you.

To help combat this risk and keep rural residents safe, Clarington and the Region of Durham have partnered with Farm 911: The Emily Project. This voluntary safety initiative encourages rural landowners to request a civic address and sign for their properties’ entrances. There is no cost to the landowner to get an address, second address or to install the sign.

How to apply

Contact the Planning Services Department at 905-623-3379 ext. 2660 or planningGIS@clarington.net and request an address and sign for your rural property.

Next steps

Staff will review your request and determine if your property meets the guidelines for a new or additional municipal address.
If necessary, we will assign a municipal address number to your property.
The new address will be added to the municipal street index and shared with Clarington Emergency and Fire Services, Canada Post, Durham Region and local utilities. If it is a second address for a vacant property, it will only be shared within Clarington. The landowner will receive a copy of the memo showing the property’s valid municipal address.
An address sign will be installed at the property entrance one to three weeks after the new address has been circulated.